The Chicago Bears are about to kick off their 2023 season against the Green Bay Packers. Starting with a win against their eternal rival would be a great way to build momentum. However, several other machinations are at work. GM Ryan Poles has his eye on the 2024 off-season, knowing it could prove pivotal to transforming his team into a legitimate contender. One way to do that is with the two 1st round picks he’ll have next April. One will be the Bears’ own, and the other is the one they got from the Carolina Panthers in the D.J. Moore trade.
That pick could prove valuable since the Panthers weren’t too good last season. If they have a similar record to what they produced in 2022, the Bears may end up with a top-10 selection. Things are off to a good start. Carolina has lost their season opener to the Atlanta Falcons by a score of 24-10. Rookie quarterback Bryce Young threw two interceptions, and none of his receivers topped 50 yards. It was an ugly afternoon that confirmed many of the concerns about this team, especially on the offensive side.
The Chicago Bears may get more good news soon.
Atlanta was supposed to be one of Carolina’s easier opponents on the schedule. New Orleans, Seattle, Minnesota, Detroit, and Miami are the next five in line. Four of those teams were in the playoffs last year. If they’re not careful, the Panthers could end up 0-6 before the season is even half over. The Bears could start dreaming about a potential top 5 pick, let alone top 10. If Moore also ends up having a great season, that trade could go down as one of the best a Bears GM has ever pulled off.
Alas, it’s a long season. Crazy things can happen. The Chicago Bears must stay focused on their own games. If the Panthers oblige them with a high draft choice, all the better. One thing is for sure. If that pick does end up really high, its usage may come down to how Justin Fields performs this season. Failing to take a step forward means Poles could end up using that on the Bears’ next signal-caller. Several scenarios are in play. Carolina is holding up their end of the bargain so far.
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…or maybe stop calling plays he stole out of Matt Nagy’s playbook, ala that brain cramp he had on the 3rd and short call to Kmet on that first drive. Unbelievable.
I hope Getsy changes up the play calling in the second half. Maybe max protect and take a couple shots down the field.
If the first half is any portent of things to come, we’ll be talking about next year’s draft a lot. Maybe they should have played the starters a bit more n the preseason.
It’s the first freaking weekend. I’m more interested in the season than I am in the next draft.
It’s the first game. No doubt Young had the jitters. 100% sure his coaches will talk to him and encourage him to shake it off, coach him up and watch lots of film. He’s a very talented player and predicting 0-6 to start the year is asking to eat crow by week 2. The Bears could start 0-6 also. Most teams are an injury away from being top 5 in the draft.